Why study A level computer science?
The computer science qualification splits learning into three sections – computer fundamentals, programming techniques and logical methods, and a programming project. A natural progression from GCSE computer science, it provides you with the perfect springboard for looking at specialising in a computing-based career. Within the course, students study a range of theory topics, which include the principles and understanding linked to programming, topics such as hardware and software, networks, systems development life cycles and implications of computer use.
Level: A level
Board: OCR
Head of department:
Mrs C Reeves
Entry requirement: Grade 6 GCSE computing; five grade 5s at GCSE including English
and maths
How will A level computer science be delivered?
| Year | Unit | Content |
| 12 | Contemporary processors, input, output and storage devices | Understanding core hardware components and how they function |
| Software and software development | Principles of software types, methodologies, and development techniques | |
| Exchanging data | Covers data transmission, compression, and encryption | |
| Data types, structures and algorithms | Exploration of how data is handled and manipulated efficiently | |
| Legal, moral, cultural and ethical issues | Analysis of the impact of computing on society and ethical use of technology | |
| 13 | Elements of computational thinking | Developing structured approaches to problem-solving |
| Problem-solving and programming | Creating algorithms and implementing effective code | |
| Algorithms to solve problems and standard algorithms | Deeper understanding of classic computing problems and solutions | |
| Independent programming project | Design and develop a full software solution showcasing individual skills |
Assessment
- Paper 1: written exam (40%) – problem solving, programming, and computational thinking
- Paper 2: written exam (40%) – theoretical knowledge including hardware, data, software, and legal/ethical issues
- Programming project: coursework (20%) – an individual project to design, code and evaluate a software solution
- Re-sit opportunity: available once during the course.
